6.5 7 lb [ g] oz/ft 2 [79 85 g/dm 2 ]

Transcription

1 INSTRUCTION MANUAL SPECIFICATIONS Wingspan: 54 in [1370mm] Wing Area: 572 in 2 [36.9 dm 2 ] Weight: Wing Loading: lb [ g] oz/ft 2 [79 85 g/dm 2 ] Radio: Engine: 4-channel minimum with 4 5 servos and standard receiver cu in [7.5 9cc] two-stroke, cu in [ cc] four-stroke, RimFire.46 ( ) brushless outrunner motor WARRANTY Great Planes Model Manufacturing Co. guarantees this kit to be free from defects in both material and workmanship at the date of purchase. This warranty does not cover any component parts damaged by use or modification. In no case shall Great Planes liability exceed the original cost of the purchased kit. Further, Great Planes reserves the right to change or modify this warranty without notice. In that Great Planes has no control over the final assembly or material used for final assembly, no liability shall be assumed nor accepted for any damage resulting from the use by the user of the final user-assembled product. By the act of using the user-assembled product, the user accepts all resulting liability. If the buyer is not prepared to accept the liability associated with the use of this product, the buyer is advised to return this kit immediately in new and unused condition to the place of purchase. To make a warranty claim, send the defective part or item to Hobby Services at the address below: Hobby Services 3002 N. Apollo Dr. Suite 1 Champaign IL USA Include a letter stating your name, return shipping address, as much contact information as possible (daytime telephone number, fax number, address), a detailed description of the problem and a photocopy of the purchase receipt. Upon receipt of the package the problem will be evaluated as quickly as possible. READ THROUGH THIS MANUAL BEFORE STARTING CONSTRUCTION. IT CONTAINS IMPORTANT INSTRUCTIONS AND WARNINGS CONCERNING THE ASSEMBLY AND USE OF THIS MODEL. Champaign, Illinois (217) , Ext 5 airsupport@greatplanes.com Entire Contents Copyright 2009 GPMA1328 Mnl v1.0

2 TABLE OF CONTENTS INTRODUCTION... 2 SAFETY PRECAUTIONS... 3 DECISIONS YOU MUST MAKE... 3 Radio Equipment... 3 Power System Recommendations... 3 Propeller... 4 Batteries and Charger... 4 ADDITIONAL ITEMS REQUIRED... 4 Required Hardware and Accessories... 4 Adhesives and Building Supplies... 4 Optional Supplies and Tools... 4 Building Stand... 5 IMPORTANT BUILDING NOTES... 5 ORDERING REPLACEMENT PARTS... 5 KIT INSPECTION... 6 PREPARATIONS... 7 ASSEMBLE THE WINGS... 7 ASSEMBLE THE TAIL SECTION... 9 INSTALL THE TAIL SERVOS AND PUSHRODS ASSEMBLE & INSTALL THE MAIN LANDING GEAR.. 13 INSTALL THE POWER SYSTEM Glow Engine Installation Brushless Motor Installation FINISH THE MODEL APPLY THE DECALS GET THE MODEL READY TO FLY Install and Operate the Motor Battery Check the Control Directions Set the Control Throws Balance the Model (C.G.) Balance the Model Laterally PREFLIGHT Identify Your Model Charge the Batteries Balance Propellers Ground Check Range Check ENGINE SAFETY PRECAUTIONS LITHIUM BATTERY HANDLING AND USAGE AMA SAFETY CODE CHECK LIST FLYING Fuel Mixture Adjustments Takeoff Flight Landing INTRODUCTION Congratulations on your purchase of the Great Planes Shoestring.46 ARF! This beautiful, fi berglass fuselage model follows on the success of Great Planes larger,.60-sized version. Much of the typical ARF building work has been completed at the factory, leaving only the fi nal steps needed to get you airborne quickly. Even a pilot comes already installed! You ll enjoy sport performance with a.46-size engine, or experience scale-like speeds that recall the Cleveland Air Races with a.55. Accommodations have also been made for installing a brushless power system. A magnetic canopy hatch makes radio access and battery changes a breeze! The two-piece wing with a lightweight, carbon wing tube allows for easy transport. For the latest technical updates or manual corrections to the Shoestring.46 ARF visit the Great Planes web site at www. greatplanes.com. Open the Airplanes link, then select the Shoestring.46 ARF. If there is new technical information or changes to this model a tech notice box will appear in the upper left corner of the page. AMA If you are not already a member of the AMA, please join! The AMA is the governing body of model aviation and membership provides liability insurance coverage, protects modelers rights and interests and is required to fl y at most R/C sites. Academy of Model Aeronautics 5151 East Memorial Drive Muncie, IN Tele: (800) Fax (765) Or via the Internet at: IMPORTANT!!! Two of the most important things you can do to preserve the radio controlled aircraft hobby are to avoid fl ying near full-scale aircraft and avoid fl ying near or over groups of people. 2

3 IMPORTANT SAFETY PRECAUTIONS DECISIONS YOU MUST MAKE 1. Your Shoestring.46 ARF should not be considered a toy, but rather a sophisticated, working model that functions very much like a full-size airplane. Because of its performance capabilities, the Shoestring, if not assembled and operated correctly, could possibly cause injury to yourself or spectators and damage to property. 2. You must assemble the model according to the instructions. Do not alter or modify the model, as doing so may result in an unsafe or unflyable model. In a few cases the instructions may differ slightly from the photos. In those instances the written instructions should be considered as correct. 3. You must take time to build straight, true and strong. 4. You must use an R/C radio system that is in fi rst-class condition, and a correctly sized engine and components (fuel tank, wheels, etc.) throughout the building process. 5. You must correctly install all R/C and other components so that the model operates correctly on the ground and in the air. 6. You must check the operation of the model before every fl ight to insure that all equipment is operating and that the model has remained structurally sound. Be sure to check clevises or other connectors often and replace them if they show any signs of wear or fatigue. 7. If you are not an experienced pilot or have not fl own this type of model before, we recommend that you get the assistance of an experienced pilot in your R/C club for your fi rst fl ights. If you re not a member of a club, your local hobby shop has information about clubs in your area whose membership includes experienced pilots. 8. While this kit has been fl ight tested to exceed normal use, if the plane will be used for extremely high stress fl ying, such as racing, or if an engine larger than one in the recommended range is used, the modeler is responsible for taking steps to reinforce the high stress points and/or substituting hardware more suitable for the increased stress. 9. WARNING: The cowl, wheel pants, and fuselage included in this kit are made of fi berglass, the fi bers of which may cause eye, skin and respiratory tract irritation. Never blow into a part to remove fi berglass dust, as the dust will blow back into your eyes. Always wear safety goggles, a particle mask and rubber gloves when grinding, drilling and sanding fi berglass parts. Vacuum the parts and the work area thoroughly after working with fi berglass parts. We, as the kit manufacturer, provide you with a top quality, thoroughly tested kit and instructions, but ultimately the quality and fl yability of your fi nished model depends on how you build it; therefore, we cannot in any way guarantee the performance of your completed model, and no representations are expressed or implied as to the performance or safety of your completed model. Remember: Take your time and follow the instructions to end up with a well-built model that is straight and true. 3 This is a partial list of items required to finish the Shoestring.46 ARF that may require planning or decision making before starting to build. Order numbers are provided in parentheses. Radio Equipment The Shoestring.46 ARF requires a minimum 4-channel radio system with four 44 oz.-in. [3.2 kg-cm] minimum standard sized servos. If you are installing a glow engine, an additional standard servo is required for the throttle. In addition, two 6" [152mm] servo extensions are required for the aileron servos. If you are using a radio system that does not support mixing functions, Y-harnesses will also be required to connect the aileron servos to the receiver. If you plan to install a brushless motor, you will need a 6" [152mm] servo extension for the ESC. A charge jack receptacle is optional, but is useful for recharging the receiver pack without removing the canopy hatch. Recommended part numbers for the radio components are provided below: Futaba S9001 Servo Aircraft Coreless BB (FUTM0075) Hobbico Pro HD Extension 6" [152mm] Futaba J (HCAM2701) Hobbico Pro HD Y-Harness Futaba J (HCAM2751) Ernst Charge Receptacle Futaba J FM (ERNM3001) Power System Recommendations The recommended engine/motor size for the Shoestring.46 ARF is a cu in [7 9 cc] two-stroke engine, a cu in [ cc] four-stroke engine, or a RimFire.46 ( ) brushless outrunner motor. Engine and motor order numbers are provided below: O.S. 46AX ABL w/muffl er (OSMG0547) Bisson O.S..46 SF/FX.50 SX Pitts Muffl er (BISG4046) Great Planes RimFire.46 ( ) Outrunner Brushless (GPMG4725) Great Planes Brushless Motor Mount Medium Motors (GPMG1255) If using the recommended brushless motor, a 80A brushless ESC is required: Great Planes Silver Series 80A Brushless ESC High Volt (GPMM1860)

4 Propeller If you are installing a glow engine, choose a prop based on the engine manufacturer s recommendation. If you are installing the recommended RimFire brushless motor, we suggest an APC 11x5.5E propeller (APCQ1055). Batteries and Charger For a brushless motor installation, two 3350mAh 11.1V Lithium Polymer battery packs connected in series are recommended. Order numbers for the battery packs and series connector are provided below: Great Planes LiPo 3350mAh 11.1V 25C Discharge w/balance (GPMP0541) Great Planes Series Deans U 2 to 1 Adapter (GPMM3143) A cell balancer is required for the LiPo battery listed above: Great Planes ElectriFly Equinox LiPo Cell Balancer 1-5 (GPMM3160) A suitable charger is also required. The Great Planes PolyCharge4 is designed for LiPo packs only, but is able to charge four LiPo packs simultaneously. The Great Planes Triton2 charger will only charge one pack at a time, but is capable of charging NiCd, NiMH, LiPo, and Pb acid batteries. Order numbers for both are provided below: Adhesives and Building Supplies This is the list of Adhesives and Building Supplies that are required to fi nish the Shoestring.46 ARF: 1/2 oz. [15g] Thin Pro CA (GPMR6001) 1/2 oz. [15g] Thick Pro CA (GPMR6013) Pro 30-minute epoxy (GPMR6047) Threadlocker thread locking cement (GPMR6060) Denatured alcohol (for epoxy clean up) Drill bits: 1/16" [1.6mm], 5/64" [2mm], 3/32" [2.4mm], 3/16" [4.8mm], 1/4" [6.4mm] Great Planes Tap & Drill Set 6-32 (GPMR8102) (Glow engine installation only) Tap handle (GPMR8120) (Glow engine installation only) Rotary tool with cutting bit #1 Hobby knife (HCAR0105) #11 blades (XACR3111) Medium T-pins (100, HCAR5150) Top Flite MonoKote sealing iron (TOPR2100) Top Flite Hot Sock iron cover (TOPR2175) 220 grit sandpaper Panel Line Pen (TOPQ2510) Optional Supplies and Tools Here is a list of optional tools that will help you build the Shoestring.46 ARF: Great Planes PolyCharge4 DC Only 4 Output LiPo Charger (GPMM3015) OR Great Planes ElectriFly Triton2 DC Comp Peak Charger (GPMM3153) ADDITIONAL ITEMS REQUIRED Required Hardware and Accessories This is the list of hardware and accessories required to fi nish the Shoestring.46 ARF. Order numbers are provided in parentheses: R/C foam rubber (1/4" [6mm] - HCAQ1000, or 1/2" [13mm] - HCAQ1050) 3' [900mm] standard silicone fuel tubing (GPMQ4131) (glow engine only) 4 1/2 oz. [15g] Medium Pro CA+ (GPMR6007) 2 oz. [57g] spray CA activator (GPMR6035) 4 oz. [113g] aerosol CA activator (GPMR6034) CA applicator tips (HCAR3780) CA debonder (GPMR6039) Pro 6-minute epoxy (GPMR6045) Epoxy brushes 6, (GPMR8060) Mixing sticks (GPMR8055) Mixing cups (GPMR8056) Pliers with wire cutter (HCAR0630) Harry Higley's 3/16" Extended Drill (HIGR1020) Rotary tool reinforced cut-off wheel (GPMR8200) Servo horn drill (HCAR0698) Hobby Heat micro torch II (HCAR0755) Dead Center Engine Mount Hole Locator (GPMR8130) Precision Magnetic Prop Balancer (TOPQ5700) AccuThrow Defl ection Gauge (GPMR2405) CG Machine (GPMR2400) Hobbico Flexible 18" Ruler Stainless Steel (HCAR0460) Top Flite MonoKote trim seal iron (TOPR2200) Top Flite MonoKote heat gun (TOPR2000) Hobbico Pin Vise 1/16 Collet w/6 Bits (HCAR0696)

5 Hobbico 8-Piece Ball Tip Hex L Wrench SAE (HCAR0520) Hobbico 7-Piece Ball Tip Hex L Wrench Metric (HCAR0521) Great Planes Clevis Installation Tool (GPMR8030) Building Stand ORDERING REPLACMENT PARTS Replacement parts for the Great Planes Shoestring.46 ARF are available using the order numbers in the Replacement Parts List that follows. The fastest, most economical service can be provided by your hobby dealer or mail-order company. To locate a hobby dealer, visit the Hobbico web site at www. greatplanes.com. Choose Where to Buy and follow the instructions provided on the page to locate a U.S., Canadian or International dealer. Parts may also be ordered directly from Hobby Services by calling (217) , or via facsimile at (217) , but full retail prices and shipping and handling charges will apply. Illinois and Nevada residents will also be charged sales tax. If ordering via fax, include a Visa or MasterCard number and expiration date for payment. Mail parts orders and payments by personal check to: A building stand or cradle comes in handy during the build. We use the Robart Super Stand II (ROBP1402) for all our projects in R&D, and it can be seen in pictures throughout this manual. IMPORTANT BUILDING NOTES When you see the term test fit in the instructions, it means that you should fi rst position the part on the assembly without using any glue, then slightly modify or custom fi t the part as necessary for the best fi t. Whenever the term glue is written you should rely upon your experience to decide what type of glue to use. When a specifi c type of adhesive works best for that step, the instructions will make a recommendation. Whenever just epoxy is specifi ed you may use either 30-minute (or 45-minute) epoxy or 6-minute epoxy. When 30-minute epoxy is specifi ed it is highly recommended that you use only 30-minute (or 45-minute) epoxy, because you will need the working time and/or the additional strength. Photos and sketches are placed before the step they refer to. Frequently you can study photos in following steps to get another view of the same parts. The stabilizer and wing incidences and engine thrust angles have been factory-built into this model. However, some technically-minded modelers may wish to check these measurements anyway. To view this information visit the web site at and click on Technical Data. Due to manufacturing tolerances which will have little or no effect on the way your model will fl y, please expect slight deviations between your model and the published values. Hobby Services 3002 N Apollo Drive, Suite 1 Champaign IL Be certain to specify the order number exactly as listed in the Replacement Parts List. Payment by credit card or personal check only; no C.O.D. If additional assistance is required for any reason contact Product Support by at productsupport@greatplanes. com, or by telephone at (217) Order No. GPMA3390 GPMA3391 GPMA3392 GPMA3393 GPMA3394 GPMA3395 GPMA3396 GPMA3397 GPMA3398 NOTE REPLACEMENT PARTS LIST Fuselage Wing Set Tail Set Canopy/Hatch Cowl Landing Gear Wheel Pants Wing Tube Decal Description Full-size plans are not available. You can download a copy of this manual at 5

6 KIT INSPECTION Before starting to build, take an inventory of this kit to make sure it is complete, and inspect the parts to make sure they are of acceptable quality. If any parts are missing or are not of acceptable quality, or if you need assistance with assembly, contact Product Support. Great Planes Product Support 3002 N Apollo Drive, Suite 1 Champaign, IL Telephone: (217) , ext. 5 Fax: (217) airsupport@greatplanes.com Canopy/Hatch 2. Fuselage 3. Cowl 4. Spinner 5. Fuel Tank 6. Engine Mount Halves 7. Wheel Pants (2) 8. Main Landing Gear (2) 9. Main Wheels (2) 10. Tail Wheel Assembly 11. Rudder 12. Horizontal Stabilizer 13. Wing Halves 14. Wing Joiner Tube 6

7 PREPARATIONS 1. If you have not done so already, remove the major parts of the kit from the box and inspect for damage. If any parts are damaged or missing, contact Product Support at the address or telephone number listed in the Kit Inspection section on page Attach a 6" [152mm] servo extension to each aileron servo and secure the connector using 1-1/2" [38mm] pieces from the included heat shrink tubing. Center the servos with your radio system and install the servo arms to the servos perpendicular to the servo cases as shown. Be sure to reinstall the servo arm screws into the servos. 2. Remove the tape and separate all the control surfaces. Use a covering iron with a covering sock on high heat to tighten the covering if necessary. Apply pressure over sheeted areas to thoroughly bond the covering to the wood. ASSEMBLE THE WINGS Before completing this section, confi rm that the servos that you will be using will properly fi t between the servo mounting blocks on the aileron servo hatch covers. Make adjustments as necessary for your brand servos. A razor saw or hobby knife can be used to trim the blocks if necessary. 5/64" [2mm] CUT OFF UNUSED ARMS 3. Position the servos against the underside of the aileron servo hatch covers between the mounting blocks. Shim the servo away from the hatch cover approximately 3/64" [1.2mm] (a business card folded in thirds works well for this). Drill 1/16" [1.6mm] holes through the mounting tabs on the servo cases into the blocks. Thread a servo mounting screw (included with the servo) into each hole and back it out. Apply a drop of thin CA to each hole to harden the wood. When the CA has dried, install the servos onto the hatch covers using the hardware supplied with the servos. 1. Cut three arms from a four-armed servo arm for each aileron servo. Enlarge the outer hole of each remaining arm with a 5/64" [2mm] drill bit. 7

8 6. Thread a nylon clevis 20 complete turns onto each 4" [102mm] pushrod. Slide a silicone clevis retainer onto each clevis and connect the clevises to the outer holes of two control horns. CORRECT INCORRECT Hinge Line Hinge Line 4. Use the strings taped inside the aileron servo hatches to pull the servo leads through the wing. 5. Position the aileron servo hatch covers in place and drill a 1/16" [1.6mm] hole through the mounting holes and into the hatch mounting blocks. Thread a #2 x 3/8" [9.5mm] selftapping screw into each hole and back it out. Apply a drop of thin CA to each hole to harden the wood surrounding the hole. Install the hatch covers to the wings using eight #2 x 3/8" [9.5mm] self-tapping screws and eight #2 fl at washers Position the control horns over the plywood plates in the ailerons (if you cannot see them, hold the aileron at a shallow angle in good lighting or use a small pin to puncture the covering) using the position of the servo arms as a guide. Align the holes in the control horns directly over the aileron hinge line and mark the location of the control horn mounting holes. 8. Drill 1/16" [1.6mm] holes at the marks you made through the plywood plates. Do not drill all the way through the ailerons! Thread a #2 x 1/2" [13mm] self-tapping screw through each hole and back it out. Apply a couple drops of thin CA glue to each hole to harden the wood. When the glue has dried, install the control horns onto the ailerons using four #2 x 1/2" [13mm] self-tapping screws.

9 ASSEMBLE THE TAIL SECTION Servo Horn 2-56 (.074") Pushrod Wire FasLink 1/16" 9. Use tape or a small clamp to hold the ailerons in the neutral position. Make a mark on the pushrods where they cross the outer holes in the servo arms. Make a 90 bend at the mark on the pushrod and cut off the excess pushrod 1/4" [6mm] beyond the bend. Attach the pushrods to the servo arms using nylon FasLinks. Thread the clevises up or down on the pushrods as necessary to center the ailerons with the servo arms centered. When satisfi ed, slide the silicone clevis retainers to the ends of the clevises to secure them. 1. Insert the wing tube into the fuselage and center its position. Slide the wing panels onto the tube and feed the aileron servo leads through the mating holes in the fuse. Tighten the wing panels against the fuse using the two nylon wing bolts. 9

10 and right and align it with the wing panels. Use denatured alcohol to clean up any excess epoxy. Allow the epoxy to cure undisturbed. 4. When the epoxy has cured, the wing panels can be removed from the fuselage and set aside. They will not be needed again until it is time to set up the control throws. 1" 1" 3/4" 5. Cut the included 2" x 9" [51mm x 229mm] CA hinge strip into 3/4" x 1" [19mm x 25mm] individual hinges. Clip the corners of each hinge to make them easier to insert into the hinge slots. 2. Test fi t the horizontal stabilizer into the stab slot at the aft end of the fuselage (without glue). Center the stab left and right in the fuse. Measure the distance from the stab tips to the wing tips and make the measurements equal. Now, stand behind the model approximately 5-6 ft [ m] and confi rm that the stab and wings are parallel. If not, weight can be added to one side to bring them parallel, or the stab can be taped to the fi n to pull it parallel with the wing. DRILL A 3/32" HOLE, 1/2" DEEP, IN CENTER OF HINGE SLOT 6. Drill a 3/32" [2.4mm] hole 1/2" [13mm] deep into the center of each hinge slot in the stab and elevator halves. 3. After you have determined if any weight will need to be added during the gluing process, remove the stab from the fuse. If necessary, lightly sand away any excess paint from inside the stab slot. Mix up a batch of 30-minute epoxy 7. Test fi t a CA hinge into each of the hinge slots in the and coat the stab slot as well as the exposed wood of the stab and elevator halves. If necessary, enlarge the slots with stabilizer (coating the stab slot will require additional cleanup a hobby knife. When satisfi ed with the fi t, insert a CA hinge after inserting the stab into the fuse. However, it will make a halfway into each hinge slot in the wing panel. Push a pin stronger glue joint). Slide the stab into the fuse, center it left through the middle of each hinge to keep them centered. 10

11 8. Join the elevators to the stab and remove the pins from the hinges. Align the tips of the elevators with the stab tips. Adjust the elevators so there is a small gap between the LE of the elevators and the stab. The gap should be small, just enough to see light through the gap or to slip a piece of paper through. Apply six drops of thin CA to the top and bottom of each hinge without using accelerator. After the CA glue has hardened, confi rm that the elevators are secure by pulling on them and defl ecting them up and down. 11. Glue the tail wheel wire into the hole in the LE of the rudder with medium or thick CA glue. Lightly coat both sides of the nylon tab with thick CA glue or epoxy and fi t the rudder to the fuselage along with two CA hinges. Glue the CA hinges in place with thin CA glue. 9. Test fi t the rudder to the fuselage with the tail wheel assembly installed in the orientation shown. Make any adjustments necessary so the nylon tab on the tail wheel wire fi ts all the way into the slot in the fuse. 12. Secure the tail wheel onto the tail wheel wire with a 3/32" [2.4mm] wheel collar and a 4-40 set screw. 10. Roughen the portion of the tail wheel assembly that fi ts into the rudder with 220-grit sand paper and clean it off with alcohol. Oil the tail wheel wire at the nylon tab to prevent it from being glued to the wire. 11

12 INSTALL THE TAIL SERVOS AND PUSHRODS 2. Install a control horn onto the right side of the rudder in the same manner. 3. Install the elevator and rudder servos onto the servo tray in the direction and positions shown using the hardware supplied with the servos. Note that the pushrods are used to position the servos on the tray. Be sure to harden the screw holes with thin CA as was done with the aileron servos. Cut three arms from two four-armed servo arms. Center the servos with your radio system and install them onto the servos with the servo screws. Enlarge the outer holes of each servo arm with a 5/64" [2mm] drill bit. 1. Temporarily insert a 2-56 x 36" [914mm] pushrod into each elevator pushrod exit slot. Use the position of the pushrods to align the elevator control horns onto the undersides of the elevator halves. Mark the locations of the control horn mounting holes onto the elevator halves and drill 5/64" [2mm] holes at the marks. Attach the elevator control horns to the elevators using four 2-56 x 5/8" [16mm] machine screws and the control horn backplates Thread a nylon clevis and silicone clevis retainer onto a 2-56 x 36" [914mm] pushrod 20 complete turns. Slide the

13 pushrod through the rudder pushrod exit slot in the fuselage and connect it to the third outer hole in the rudder control horn. Slide the silicone clevis retainer to the end of the clevis. 4. With the rudder in the neutral position and the rudder servo arm perpendicular to the servo case, mark where the pushrod crosses the outer hole of the servo arm. As you did with the aileron pushrods, make a 90 bend at the mark and cut off the excess pushrod 1/4" [6.4mm] beyond the bend. Secure the pushrod to the servo arm with a nylon FasLink. Make any adjustments necessary to the nylon clevis so that the rudder is properly centered and slide the silicone clevis retainer to the end of the clevis. 6. With the left elevator in the neutral position and the elevator servo arm perpendicular to the servo case, mark the location where the left elevator pushrod crosses the outer hole of the elevator servo arm. Make a 90 degree bend at the mark and cut off the excess pushrod 1/4" [6.4mm] beyond the bend. Position the right elevator in the neutral position and cut off the excess pushrod 1" [25mm] behind the elevator servo arm. Join the two elevator pushrods together using two 5/32" [4mm] wheel collars, two 6-32 x 1/4" [6.4mm] SHCS, and thread locking compound. View the model from behind and confi rm that the elevator halves are parallel. If not, make any adjustments as necessary to the clevises or wheel collars until they are. Connect the left elevator pushrod to the servo arm with a FasLink. ASSEMBLE AND INSTALL THE MAIN LANDING GEAR 5. Connect two 2-56 x 36" [914mm] pushrods with nylon clevises and silicone clevis retainers to the third outer holes in the elevator control horns. 1. Secure the axles to the landing gear legs using the 5/16"-24 nylon lock nuts. 13

14 2. Slide a 5/32" [4mm] wheel collar onto each axle followed by a 3" [76mm] wheel and then another 5/32" [4mm] wheel collar. Mark the location of the threaded holes in the wheel collars onto the axles. Use a fi le or rotary tool such as a Dremel to grind fl at spots at the marks on the axles. 5. Attach the landing gear legs to the fuselage using four 6-32 x 5/8" [16mm] SHCS, four #6 fl at washers, four #6 lock washers, and thread locking compound. 3. Reinstall the wheel collars and wheels onto the axles. Thread a 6-32x1/4" [6.4mm] socket head cap screw into each wheel collar and tighten the screws against the flat spots on the axles using threadlocking compound. Be sure that the wheel rotates freely on the axle. Oil the axles if necessary. 4. Attach the wheel pants to the landing gear legs using four 4-40 x 1/2" [13mm] machine screws, four #4 fl at washers, four #4 lock washers, and thread locking compound. 14

15 INSTALL THE POWER SYSTEM TOP OF TANK Glow Engine Installation The Shoestring is designed to be fl own with a twostroke glow engine, four-stroke glow engine, or a brushless outrunner motor. If you plan to install a brushless motor, skip this section as it only contains information relevant to installing a glow engine. VENT FILL AND CARB LINES 2. Fit the stopper assembly into the tank with the vent line pointing toward the top of the tank, but not touching. The fuel tubing and clunks (fuel pickup) on the carb and fi ll lines should almost reach the back of the tank but not touch. The clunks must be able to move freely inside the tank when assembled. Adjust the length of the fuel tubing accordingly. When satisfi ed, tighten the 3x25mm screw in the stopper to secure it in place (do not over-tighten). Mark the side of the tank that must face up when installed in the plane, and we also suggest marking the tubes in the stopper. 1. The fuel tank can be assembled as a two line system consisting of a vent (pressure) line to the muffl er and a carb line. Filling and emptying of the tank would need to be done through the carb line, or an optional fuel fi ll valve (not included). The tank can also be assembled as a three line system having a vent line, carb line, and fi ll line. If installing a fi ll line, puncture the top of the stopper above the sealed off fuel tube hole. The front of the lines should extend out 1/2" [13mm] beyond the stopper and the vent line should be bent upwards and left uncut. With the tubes installed in the stopper, fi t the stopper plates loosely in place with the 3 x 25mm phillips screw to hold the assembly together. 3. Make a 12" [305mm] strap from the included hook and loop material by overlapping the mating ends by approximately 1" [25mm]. 15

16 4. Insert the hook and loop through the slots in the fuel tank tray. Fit the tank neck through the hole in the fi rewall (with the correct side of the tank facing up) and use the strap to tightly secure the tank to the tray. 7. Using four 6-32 x 3/4" [19mm] SHCS, four #6 fl at washers, four #6 lock washers, and thread locking compound, attach the engine mount side-mounted to the fi rewall so that the engine head will be on the right side. Leave the screws slightly loose. Test fi t your engine between the mount halves. Slide the mount halves against the sides of the engine and fi nish tightening the mount screws. 8. Attach a 6"-7" [152mm-178mm] piece of fuel tubing onto each line coming from the tank. 5. Cut the included 6x6mm stick to fi t snugly between the fuse sides right behind the fuel tank. Glue the stick into place. 9. Position the front of the engine drive washer 4-7/8" 6. If you plan to install the O.S. 81FS-a engine, you will [124mm] from the firewall. Mark the location of the engine need to cut away the nose gear bearing from the engine mount holes onto the mount rails using a Dead Center Hole mount as shown. A rotary tool with a sanding or cutting bit Locator. Remove the engine from the mount and use a 6-32 works well for this. A hobby knife can also be used. tap and drill set to create threads in the four mounting holes. 16

17 10. Attach the engine to the mount using four 6-32 x 1" [25mm] SHCS, four #6 flat washers, and four #6 lock washers. 13. Cut three arms from a four-armed servo arm included with your throttle servo. Install a screw-lock pushrod connector into the outer hole in the remaining arm and secure it in place with a nylon pushrod connector retainer. Loosely install a 4-40 x 1/8" [3mm] SHCS into the screw-lock pushrod connector. 11. Install your muffl er onto the engine. We are using a pitts-style muffl er for a clean and easy installation. The stock muffl er will also work, but a lot of the cowl will have to be trimmed away. 14. Center the throttle servo with your radio system and install the arm perpendicular to the servo case. Install the throttle servo onto the throttle servo tray using the hardware supplied with the servo. Most engine models will require the throttle servo to be oriented on the tray in the direction shown. 12. Cut the fuel tubing coming from the tank to the proper length and connect the pressure and carb lines to the engine. The fill line (if installed) should be plugged with the included 15. Drill a hole through the fi rewall using a 3/16" [4.8mm] aluminum fuel line plug and can be routed through a hole in drill bit (an extra long bit works well for this step) inline with the cowl which will be done later in the assembly (remember to the location of the throttle arm on the engine carburetor. Take replace the fuel line plug after filling or draining the fuel tank). care not to drill through the fuel tank! 17

18 and test fi t into the outer pushrod tube. Make the necessary bends to the pushrod in order to clear the muffl er. When satisfi ed, connect the clevis to the throttle arm on the engine and insert the aft end of the pushrod through the screwlock pushrod connector. Make any necessary adjustments to the brass screw-lock connector so that the throttle opens and closes with the servo. Tighten the SHCS in the pushrod connector, cut away the excess pushrod 1/4" [6.4mm] behind the pushrod connector, and glue a plywood outer pushrod clip to the outer pushrod tube and fuel tank brace. Use the radio system to test the operation of the throttle, making sure it properly opens and closes. 16. Roughen the ends of the 7-1/2" [191mm] outer pushrod tube using 220-grit sandpaper. Slide the outer pushrod tube through the hole in the fi rewall leaving 1/4" [6.4mm] protruding from the front of the fi rewall. Glue the outer pushrod tube to the fi rewall. Brushless Motor Installation The Shoestring.46 ARF is designed to be fl own with a two-stroke glow engine, four-stroke glow engine, or a brushless outrunner motor. If you plan to install a glow engine, skip this section as it only contains information relevant to installing a brushless motor. Be sure to read and understand the instructions that come with the ESC and motor before attempting to operate the system. 1. Attach the outrunner motor to the brushless motor mount using the included 3 x 8mm machine screws and thread 17. Cut part of the threads away leaving 1/2" [13mm] of locking compound. If you haven t done so yet, install the prop thread length from the remaining 17-1/2" [445mm] pushrod. adapter to the motor case with the hardware included with Thread a clevis and silicone clevis retainer onto the pushrod the motor and thread locking compound. 18

19 2. Temporarily attach the motor mount to the fi rewall with two 6-32 x 3/4" [19mm] SHCS or hold the motor mount in position while you mark the location for cooling holes in the location shown. There should be an elliptical-shaped hole on both sides of the mount. Use a rotary tool to cut out the holes before attaching the mount. When satisfi ed with the size and shape of the holes, attach the motor mount to the fi rewall using four 6-32 x 3/4" [19mm] SHCS, four #6 fl at washers, four #6 lock washers, and thread locking compound. 4. Assemble the ESC tray as shown. Use pieces from the included 6x6mm triangle stock to reinforce the tray sides. 3. Loosen the screws that hold the aluminum motor mount halves together and slide them apart as necessary so that the front of the prop adapter is 4-7/8" [124mm] from the fi rewall. When adjusting the mount, do not inadvertently create an up or down motor thrust angle. Use thread locking compound on the screws that join the motor mount halves Attach the ESC to the tray using three 3x12mm selftapping screws. Be sure to harden the screw holes with thin CA. Other brand ESCs may need to be attached to the tray with tie straps (not included) or a hook and loop strap.

20 8. Make a strap from the included non-adhesive hook and loop material long enough to fi t your battery packs. Feed the strap through the slots in the battery. 6. If you are using the recommended Great Planes SS-80 ESC, you will need to attach a 6" [152mm] servo extension. Secure the extension with tape, heat shrink tubing, or a special clip designed for that purpose. Attach the ESC tray to the brushless motor mount using four 3x12mm machine screws, four 3mm fl at washers, and four 3mm nylon lock nuts. The battery and ESC receiver leads should be routed through the center hole in the fi rewall. Secure the excess motor leads out of the way of the motor. We used a tie strap (not included). 9. Test fi t your batteries onto the tray. The exact position of the batteries will be determined when you will check the balance of the plane after the assembly has been completed. When you confi rm the needed position of the batteries on the tray, mark that position somewhere on the tray. Now would also be a good time to confi rm the correct rotation of the motor (before you install the propeller) using your radio system. The motor should rotate counter-clockwise when looking at the airplane from the front. If the motor rotates in the wrong direction, simply disconnect any two of the three motor leads and swap their positions. 7. Apply a thin coat of epoxy down the center of the battery tray. This will improve the adhesion of the hook and loop material. When the epoxy has completely cured, attach a piece of the hook side from the included hook and loop strap to the battery tray. The loop side should be attached to your battery pack (use additional pieces to join LiPo packs together for a series confi guration). 10. A cool air exit hole needs to be cut into the underside of the fuse behind the wing. A rotary tool with a cutting bit works well for this. Be sure your hole is made between the formers, not through them. 20

21 FINISH THE MODEL the plane, be sure to mount the switch on the opposite side. Connect the switch to the battery and receiver, being sure to secure the connection between switch and battery. You can also install a charge jack receptacle. However, we chose to leave this out since the Shoestring has a magnetically attached canopy hatch. Just be sure to keep the charge jack lead in an accessible location in the fuse. 1. Make a strap from the included hook and loop material to fi t your receiver. Cut a piece of foam rubber (not included) to fi t your receiver and strap the receiver to the tray in front of the tail servos as shown. Connect the rudder and elevator servos to the receiver (and ESC if applicable). 4. With everything connected, we suggest bundling the excess wires and use a tie strap to keep them out of the way of the hatch opening and tail servos. 2. Mount the receiver battery pack next to the receiver in the same manner. 3. Mount your switch harness to the fuselage side in the location that you prefer. We mounted ours below the wing near the leading edge. If your muffl er outlet is on the side of We used some scrap pieces of fuel tubing to support the dual receiver antennas in the correct orientation against the inside of the fuse (see your radio manual for details). If you have installed an FM or PCM receiver, route your receiver antenna through the antenna tube and out the aft end of the fuse. Be sure to install a strain relief on the antenna (if applicable).

22 hole, holding it securely in place during fl ight. If you have installed a brushless power system, make a cooling hole cutout near the bottom aft edge of the cowl. Templates for cooling hole cutouts are provided in the back of this manual if you have installed a brushless system. 6. Install the canopy hatch onto the fuselage by fi tting the dowels into the receiving holes, pressing the tabs at the aft end of the hatch into the slots, and then sliding the hatch back. Apply pieces of masking tape in the locations shown. Mark the locations for the cowl mounting screw holes on the tape using the measurements shown in the pictures. In order to transfer the mounting hole locations onto the cowl, draw a 3-3/4" [95mm] line along the tape pieces, starting the lines at your marks. 8. If necessary, ream the spinner backplate to match the diameter of the prop shaft. Fit the cowl onto the fuselage and slide the spinner backplate onto the prop shaft. Position the cowl so that the front of it is centered with the spinner backplate and is 3/32" [2.4mm] behind it. Temporarily tape the cowl into place or have a helper hold it steady while you transfer the cowl mounting hole locations onto the cowl. Do this by measuring forward along the lines on the tape 3-3/4" [95mm] and marking on the cowl for the fi ve screw holes. 7. Before fi tting the cowl, make any cutouts necessary for your power system. If you are installing a glow engine, a cutout must be made for the engine head, exhaust outlets, clearance for the throttle clevis, and needle valve access. A 1/4" [6.4mm] hole can be drilled or reamed into the cowl for 9. Drill 5/64" [2mm] holes at the marks you made on the convenient fi ll line access. The fuel tubing will slide through cowl through the cowl mounting blocks that are pre-glued the hole, but the included fuel line plug will fi t snugly into the inside the fuselage. Remove the cowl and thread a #4 x 1/2" 22

23 [13mm] self-tapping screw into each hole in the fuselage and back it out. Apply a couple drops of thin CA to each hole in the blocks. Enlarge the fi ve holes in the cowl with a 1/8" [3.2mm] bit. Install the cowl onto the fuselage using fi ve #4 x 1/2" [13mm] self-tapping screws and fi ve #4 fl at washers. GET THE MODEL READY TO FLY Install and Operate the Motor Battery (Brushless Only) IMPORTANT: If using multiple battery packs connected with an adapter, never charge the batteries together through the adapter. Always charge each battery pack separately. Charge the batteries, then read the following precautions on how to connect multiple packs for fl ying the model: BATTERY PRECAUTIONS: There are two ways to connect multiple battery packs: In Series and in Parallel. 10. Install the spinner backplate, propeller, prop washer, and prop nut onto the motor. Install the spinner cone using the screws included inside the spinner package. These are two 3200mAh batteries (one 11.1V and the other 7.4V). When joined in SERIES, the result will be a 18.5V, 3200 mah battery. 11.1V (3-Cell) 3200mAh OKAY 7.4V (2-Cell) 3200mAh This is a SERIES battery adapter (GPMM3143) that connects two batteries in series. It s okay to connect batteries with different voltages in series to achieve the new, desired voltage. Connecting batteries in Series means to connect the (+) s to the ( ) s and the ( ) s to the (+) s. This combines the voltages of the batteries, but the capacity remains the same. You have now completed the assembly! APPLY THE DECALS 1. Use scissors or a sharp hobby knife to cut the decals from the sheet. 2. Be certain the model is clean and free from oily fi ngerprints and dust. Prepare a dishpan or small bucket with a mixture of liquid dish soap and warm water about one teaspoon of soap per gallon of water. Submerse the decal in the soap and water and peel off the paper backing. Note: Even though the decals have a sticky-back and are not the water transfer type, submersing them in soap and water allows accurate positioning and reduces air bubbles underneath. 3. Position decal on the model where desired. Holding the decal down, use a paper towel to wipe most of the water away. 4. Use a piece of soft balsa or something similar to squeegee remaining water from under the decal. Apply the rest of the decals the same way. 23 These two 1500mAh batteries (both 11.1V) are being joined in PARALLEL. The result will be one 11.1V, 3000mAh battery. 11.1V (3-Cell) 1500mAh 11.1V (3-Cell) 1500mAh OKAY This is a PARALLEL battery adapter (GPMM3142) that connects two batteries in parallel. Connecting batteries in Parallel means to connect the (+) s to the (+) s and the ( ) s to the ( ) s. This combines the capacities of the batteries, but the voltage remains the same.

24 Different voltages 11.1V (3-Cell) 3200mAh 7.4V (2-Cell) 3200mAh NO!!! PARALLEL adapter Check the Control Directions 1. Turn on the transmitter and receiver and center the trims. If necessary, remove the servo arms from the servos and reposition them so they are centered. Reinstall the screws that hold on the servo arms. 2. With the transmitter and receiver still on, check all the control surfaces to see if they are centered. If necessary, adjust the clevises on the pushrods to center the control surfaces. NEVER connect battery packs with different voltages in parallel! Only combine them in series. Otherwise, the batteries with lower voltage will try to equalize with the batteries that have a higher voltage. Current will fl ow from the higher voltage battery into the lower one, essentially charging the lower voltage battery pack. This situation will likely cause heat and possibly a fi re. 4-CHANNEL RADIO SET UP (STANDARD MODE 2) RUDDER MOVES RIGHT RIGHT AILERON MOVES UP LEFT AILERON MOVES DOWN NO!!! Different capacities 11.1V (3-Cell) 3200mAh 11.1V (3-Cell) 1250mAh NEVER connect battery packs with different capacities in series or in parallel. FULL THROTTLE ELEVATOR MOVES DOWN 3. Make certain that the control surfaces and the carburetor respond in the correct direction as shown in the diagram. If any of the controls respond in the wrong direction, use the servo reversing in the transmitter to reverse the servos connected to those controls. Be certain the control surfaces have remained centered. Adjust if necessary. 24

25 Set the Control Throws Balance the Model (C.G.) More than any other factor, the C.G. (balance point) can have the greatest effect on how a model fl ies, and may determine whether or not your fi rst fl ight will be successful. If you value this model and wish to enjoy it for many fl ights, DO NOT OVERLOOK THIS IMPORTANT PROCEDURE. A model that is not properly balanced will be unstable and possibly unfl yable. At this stage the model should be in ready-to-fl y condition with all of the systems in place including the engine or brushless motor, landing gear, and the radio system (and battery pack if applicable). Use a Great Planes AccuThrow (or a ruler) to accurately measure and set the control throw of each control surface as indicated in the chart that follows. If your radio does not have dual rates, we recommend setting the throws at the low rate setting. NOTE: The throws are measured at the widest part of the elevators, rudder and ailerons. These are the recommended control surface throws: ELEVATOR HIGH RATE Up 1/2" [13mm] 14 Right RUDDER 7/8" [22mm] 14 Down 1/2" [13mm] 14 Left 7/8" [22mm] 14 LOW RATE Up 3/8" [10mm] 10 Right 5/8" [16mm] 10 Down 3/8" [10mm] 10 Left 5/8" [16mm] Use a felt-tip pen or 1/8" [3mm]-wide tape to accurately mark the C.G. on the bottom of the wing on both sides of the fuselage. The C.G. is located 3-5/8" [92mm] back from the leading edge of the wing. This is where your model should balance for the fi rst fl ights. Later, you may wish to experiment by shifting the C.G. up to 3/8" [10mm] forward or 3/8" [10mm] back to change the fl ying characteristics. Moving the C.G. forward may improve the smoothness and stability, but the model may then require more speed for takeoff and make it more diffi cult to slow for landing. Moving the C.G. aft makes the model more maneuverable, but could also cause it to become too diffi cult to control. In any case, start at the recommended balance point and do not at any time balance the model outside the specifi ed range. Up Down Up Down AILERONS 5/8" [16mm] 17 5/8" [16mm] 17 5/16" [8mm] 8 5/16" [8mm] 8 Exponential: 40% exponential is recommended on aileron high rates. If your radio system does not have an exponential function, we suggest using low rate ailerons for your first few flights. IMPORTANT: The Shoestring.46 ARF has been extensively fl own and tested to arrive at the throws at which it fl ies best. Flying your model at these throws will provide you with the greatest chance for successful fi rst fl ights. If, after you have become accustomed to the way the Shoestring fl ies, you would like to change the throws to suit your taste, that is fi ne. However, too much control throw could make the model diffi cult to control, so remember, more is not always better. 2. With the wing attached to the fuselage, all parts of the model installed (ready to fl y) and an empty fuel tank, place the model on a Great Planes CG Machine, or lift it upside-down at the balance point you marked. 3. If the tail drops, the model is tail heavy and the battery pack and/or receiver must be shifted forward or weight must be added to the nose to balance. If the nose drops, the model is nose heavy and the battery pack and/or receiver must be shifted aft or weight must be added to the tail to balance. If possible, relocate the battery pack and receiver 25

26 to minimize or eliminate any additional ballast required. If additional weight is required, nose weight may be easily added by using a spinner weight (GPMQ4645 for the 1 oz. [28g] weight, or GPMQ4646 for the 2 oz. [57g] weight). If spinner weight is not practical or is not enough, use Great Planes (GPMQ4485) stick-on lead. A good place to add stick-on nose weight is to the fi rewall (don t attach weight to the cowl it is not intended to support weight). Begin by placing incrementally increasing amounts of weight on the bottom of the fuse over the fi rewall until the model balances. Once you have determined the amount of weight required, it can be permanently attached. If required, tail weight may be added by cutting open the bottom of the fuse and gluing it permanently inside. CAUTION: Unless the instructions that came with your radio system state differently, the initial charge on new transmitter and receiver batteries should be done for 15 hours using the slow-charger that came with the radio system. This will condition the batteries so that the next charge may be done using the fast-charger of your choice. If the initial charge is done with a fast-charger the batteries may not reach their full capacity and you may be fl ying with batteries that are only partially charged. Balance Propellers Note: Do not rely upon the adhesive on the back of the lead weight to permanently hold it in place. Over time, fuel and exhaust residue may soften the adhesive and cause the weight to fall off. Use #2 sheet metal screws, RTV silicone or epoxy to permanently hold the weight in place. 4. IMPORTANT: If you found it necessary to add any weight, recheck the C.G. after the weight has been installed. Balance the Model Laterally 1. With the wing level, have an assistant help you lift the model by the engine propeller shaft and the bottom of the fuse under the TE of the fi n. Do this several times. 2. If one wing always drops when you lift the model, it means that side is heavy. Balance the airplane by adding weight to the other wing tip. An airplane that has been laterally balanced will track better in loops and other maneuvers. PREFLIGHT Carefully balance your propeller and spare propellers before you fly. An unbalanced prop can be the single most significant cause of vibration that can damage your model. Not only will engine mounting screws and bolts loosen, possibly with disastrous effect, but vibration may also damage your radio receiver and battery. Vibration can also cause your fuel to foam, which will, in turn, cause your engine to run hot or quit. We use a Top Flite Precision Magnetic Prop Balancer (TOPQ5700) in the workshop and keep a Great Planes Fingertip Prop Balancer (GPMQ5000) in our fl ight box. Ground Check Identify Your Model No matter if you fl y at an AMA sanctioned R/C club site or if you fl y somewhere on your own, you should always have your name, address, telephone number and AMA number on or inside your model. It is required at all AMA R/C club fl ying sites and AMA sanctioned fl ying events. Fill out the identifi cation tag on page 31 (or on the decal sheet) and place it on or inside your model. Charge the Batteries If the engine is new, follow the engine manufacturer s instructions to break-in the engine. After break-in, confirm that the engine idles reliably, transitions smoothly and rapidly to full power and maintains full power indefinitely. After you run the engine on the model, inspect the model closely to make sure all screws remained tight, the hinges are secure, the prop is secure and all pushrods and connectors are secure. Range Check Ground check the operational range of your radio before the fi rst fl ight of the day. With the transmitter antenna Follow the battery charging instructions that came with your collapsed and the receiver and transmitter on, you should radio control system to charge the batteries. You should be able to walk at least 100 feet away from the model and always charge your transmitter and receiver batteries the night still have control (if using a 2.4GHz radio system, refer to before you go fl ying, and at other times as recommended by the radio manual for the range checking procedure). Have the radio manufacturer. an assistant stand by your model and, while you work the 26

27 controls, tell you what the control surfaces are doing. Repeat this test with the engine running at various speeds with an assistant holding the model, using hand signals to show you what is happening. If the control surfaces do not respond correctly, do not fly! Find and correct the problem fi rst. Look for loose servo connections or broken wires, corroded wires on old servo connectors, poor solder joints in your battery pack or a defective cell, or a damaged receiver crystal from a previous crash. ENGINE SAFETY PRECAUTIONS Failure to follow these safety precautions may result in severe injury to yourself and others. Keep all engine fuel in a safe place, away from high heat, sparks or fl ames, as fuel is very fl ammable. Do not smoke near the engine or fuel; and remember that engine exhaust gives off a great deal of deadly carbon monoxide. Therefore do not run the engine in a closed room or garage. Get help from an experienced pilot when learning to operate engines. Use safety glasses when starting or running engines. LITHIUM BATTERY HANDLING AND USAGE WARNING!! Read the entire instruction sheet included with your battery. Failure to follow all instructions could cause permanent damage to the battery and its surroundings, and cause bodily harm! ONLY use a Li-Po approved charger. NEVER use a NiCd/ NiMH peak charger! NEVER charge in excess of 4.20V per cell. ONLY charge through the charge lead. NEVER charge through the discharge lead. NEVER charge at currents greater than 1C. ALWAYS set charger s output volts to match battery volts. ALWAYS charge in a fi reproof location. NEVER trickle charge. NEVER allow the battery temperature to exceed 150 F (65 C). NEVER disassemble or modify pack wiring in any way or puncture cells. NEVER discharge below 2.5V per cell. NEVER place on combustible materials or leave unattended during charge or discharge. ALWAYS KEEP OUT OF REACH OF CHILDREN. Do not run the engine in an area of loose gravel or sand; the propeller may throw such material in your face or eyes. Keep your face and body as well as all spectators away from the plane of rotation of the propeller as you start and run the engine. Keep these items away from the prop: loose clothing, shirt sleeves, ties, scarves, long hair or loose objects such as pencils or screwdrivers that may fall out of shirt or jacket pockets into the prop. Use a chicken stick or electric starter to start the engine. Do not use your fi ngers to fl ip the propeller. Make certain the glow plug clip or connector is secure so that it will not pop off or otherwise get into the running propeller. Make all engine adjustments from behind the rotating propeller. The engine gets hot! Do not touch it during or right after operation. Make sure fuel lines are in good condition so fuel will not leak onto a hot engine, causing a fi re. To stop a glow engine, cut off the fuel supply by closing off the fuel line or following the engine manufacturer s recommendations. Do not use hands, fi ngers or any other body part to try to stop the engine. To stop a gasoline powered engine an on/off switch should be connected to the engine coil. Do not throw anything into the propeller of a running engine. AMA SAFETY CODE (EXCERPTS) Read and abide by the following excerpts from the Academy of Model Aeronautics Safety Code. For the complete Safety Code refer to Model Aviation magazine, the AMA web site or the Code that came with your AMA license. General 1) I will not fl y my model aircraft in sanctioned events, air shows, or model fl ying demonstrations until it has been proven to be airworthy by having been previously, successfully fl ight tested. 2) I will not fl y my model aircraft higher than approximately 400 feet within 3 miles of an airport without notifying the airport operator. I will give right-of-way and avoid fl ying in the proximity of full-scale aircraft. Where necessary, an observer shall be utilized to supervise fl ying to avoid having models fl y in the proximity of full-scale aircraft. 3) Where established, I will abide by the safety rules for the flying site I use, and I will not willfully and deliberately fly my models in a careless, reckless and/or dangerous manner. 5) I will not fl y my model unless it is identifi ed with my name and address or AMA number, on or in the model. Note: This does not apply to models while being fl own indoors. 7) I will not operate models with pyrotechnics (any device that explodes, burns, or propels a projectile of any kind). 27

28 Radio Control 1) I will have completed a successful radio equipment ground check before the fi rst fl ight of a new or repaired model. 2) I will not fl y my model aircraft in the presence of spectators until I become a qualifi ed fl ier, unless assisted by an experienced helper. 3) At all fl ying sites a straight or curved line(s) must be established in front of which all fl ying takes place with the other side for spectators. Only personnel involved with fl ying the aircraft are allowed at or in the front of the fl ight line. Intentional fl ying behind the fl ight line is prohibited. 4) I will operate my model using only radio control frequencies currently allowed by the Federal Communications Commission. 5) I will not knowingly operate my model within three miles of any pre-existing flying site except in accordance with the frequency sharing agreement listed [in the complete AMA Safety Code]. 9) Under no circumstances may a pilot or other person touch a powered model in fl ight; nor should any part of the model other than the landing gear, intentionally touch the ground, except while landing. CHECK LIST 10. Make sure there are silicone retainers on all the clevises and that all servo arms are secured to the servos with the screws included with your radio. 11. Secure connections between servo wires and Y-connectors or servo extensions, and the connection between your battery pack and the on/off switch with vinyl tape, heat shrink tubing or special clips suitable for that purpose. 12. Make sure any servo extension cords you may have used do not interfere with other systems (servo arms, pushrods, etc.). 13. Secure the pressure tap (if used) to the muffl er with high temp RTV silicone, thread locking compound or J.B. Weld. 14. Make sure the fuel lines are connected and are not kinked. 15. Balance your propeller (and spare propellers). 16. Tighten the propeller nut and spinner. 17. Place your name, address, AMA number and telephone number on or inside your model. 18. Cycle your receiver battery pack (if necessary) and make sure it is fully charged. 19. If you wish to photograph your model, do so before your fi rst fl ight. 20. Range check your radio when you get to the fl ying fi eld. During the last few moments of preparation your mind may be elsewhere anticipating the excitement of the first flight. Because of this, you may be more likely to overlook certain checks and procedures that should be performed before the model is flown. To help avoid this, a check list is provided to make sure these important areas are not overlooked. Many are covered in the instruction manual, so where appropriate, refer to the manual for complete instructions. Be sure to check the items off as they are completed. 1. Check the C.G. according to the measurements provided in the manual. 2. Be certain the battery and receiver are securely mounted in the fuse. Simply stuffi ng them into place with foam rubber is not suffi cient. 3. Extend your receiver antenna. 4. Balance your model laterally as explained in the instructions. 5. Use threadlocking compound to secure critical fasteners such as the set screws that hold the wheel axles to the struts, screws that hold the carburetor arm (if applicable), screw-lock pushrod connectors, etc. 6. Add a drop of oil to the axles so the wheels will turn freely. 7. Make sure all hinges are securely glued in place. 8. Reinforce holes for wood screws with thin CA where appropriate (servo mounting screws, cowl mounting screws, etc.). 9. Confi rm that all controls operate in the correct direction and the throws are set up according to the manual. 28 FLYING The Shoestring.46 ARF is a great-fl ying model that fl ies smoothly and predictably. The Shoestring does not, however, possess the self-recovery characteristics of a primary R/C trainer and should be fl own only by experienced R/C pilots. CAUTION (THIS APPLIES TO ALL R/C AIRPLANES): If, while fl ying, you notice an alarming or unusual sound such as a low-pitched buzz, this may indicate control surface fl utter. Flutter occurs when a control surface (such as an aileron or elevator) or a fl ying surface (such as a wing or stab) rapidly vibrates up and down (thus causing the noise). In extreme cases, if not detected immediately, fl utter can actually cause the control surface to detach or the fl ying surface to fail, thus causing loss of control followed by an impending crash. The best thing to do when fl utter is detected is to slow the model immediately by reducing power, then land as soon as safely possible. Identify which surface fl uttered (so the problem may be resolved) by checking all the servo grommets for deterioration or signs of vibration. Make certain all pushrod linkages are secure and free of play. If it fl uttered once, under similar circumstances it will probably fl utter again unless the problem is fi xed. Some things which can cause fl utter are; Excessive hinge gap; Not mounting control horns solidly; Poor fi t of clevis pin in horn; Sideplay of wire pushrods caused by large bends; Excessive free play in servo gears; Insecure servo mounting; and one of the most prevalent causes of fl utter; Flying an over-powered model at excessive speeds.

29 Fuel Mixture Adjustments A fully cowled engine may run at a higher temperature than an un-cowled engine. For this reason, the fuel mixture should be richened so the engine runs at about 200 rpm below peak speed. By running the engine slightly rich, you will help prevent dead-stick landings caused by overheating. Takeoff Before you get ready to takeoff, see how the model handles on the ground by doing a few practice runs at low speeds on the runway. Hold up elevator to keep the tail wheel on the ground. If necessary, adjust the tail wheel so the model will roll straight down the runway. If you need to calm your nerves before the maiden fl ight, shut the engine down and bring the model back into the pits. Top off the fuel, then check all fasteners and control linkages for peace of mind. Remember to takeoff into the wind. When you re ready, point the model straight down the runway, hold a bit of up elevator to keep the tail on the ground to maintain tail wheel steering, then gradually advance the throttle. As the model gains speed decrease up elevator, allowing the tail to come off the ground. One of the most important things to remember with a tail dragger is to always be ready to apply right rudder to counteract engine torque. Gain as much speed as your runway and fl ying site will practically allow before gently applying up elevator, lifting the model into the air. At this moment it is likely that you will need to apply more right rudder to counteract engine torque. Be smooth on the elevator stick, allowing the model to establish a gentle climb to a safe altitude before turning into the traffi c pattern. Flight For reassurance and to keep an eye on other traffi c, it is a good idea to have an assistant on the fl ight line with you. Tell him to remind you to throttle back once the plane gets to a comfortable altitude. While full throttle is usually desirable for takeoff, most models fl y more smoothly at reduced speeds. Take it easy with the Shoestring for the fi rst few fl ights, gradually getting acquainted with it as you gain confi dence. Adjust the trims to maintain straight and level fl ight. If you have powered the airplane with a.46 engine, you will fi nd the plane fast, but not so fast to get yourself in trouble. If you have powered it with a.55 engine, the airplane becomes very fast so be sure to get fully acquainted with how it performs before attempting complex maneuvers that could get you into trouble. After fl ying around for a while and while still at a safe altitude with plenty of fuel, practice slow fl ight and execute practice landing approaches by reducing the throttle to see how the model handles at slower speeds. Add power to see how the model climbs as well. Continue to fl y around, executing various maneuvers and making mental notes (or having your assistant write them down) of what trim or C.G. changes may be required to fi ne tune the model so it fl ies the way you like. Mind your fuel level, but use this fi rst fl ight to become familiar with your model before landing. Landing The Shoestring has a clean, racing airframe. Because of this, you will fi nd that it takes longer to slow the plane for landing than some other airplanes you have fl own. Be prepared for this and don t be surprised if you have to go around and set up for your landing a second time. To initiate a landing approach, lower the throttle while on the downwind leg. Allow the nose of the model to pitch downward to gradually bleed off altitude. Continue to lose altitude, but maintain airspeed by keeping the nose down as you turn onto the crosswind leg. Make your fi nal turn toward the runway (into the wind) keeping the nose down to maintain airspeed and control. Level the attitude when the model reaches the runway threshold, modulating the throttle as necessary to maintain your glide path and airspeed. If you are going to overshoot, smoothly advance the throttle (always ready on the right rudder to counteract torque) and climb out to make another attempt. When you re ready to make your landing fl are and the model is a foot or so off the deck, smoothly increase up elevator until it gently touches down. Once the model is on the runway and has lost fl ying speed, hold up elevator to place the tail on the ground, regaining tail wheel control. One fi nal note about fl ying your model. Have a goal or fl ight plan in mind for every fl ight. This can be learning a new maneuver(s), improving a maneuver(s) you already know, or learning how the model behaves in certain conditions (such as on high or low rates). This is not necessarily to improve your skills (though it is never a bad idea!), but more importantly so you do not surprise yourself by impulsively attempting a maneuver and suddenly fi nding that you ve run out of time, altitude or airspeed. Every maneuver should be deliberate, not impulsive. For example, if you re going to do a loop, check your altitude, mind the wind direction (anticipating rudder corrections that will be required to maintain heading), remember to throttle back at the top, and make certain you are on the desired rates (high/low rates). A fl ight plan greatly reduces the chances of crashing your model just because of poor planning and impulsive moves. Remember to think. Have a ball! But always stay in control and fly in a safe manner. GOOD LUCK AND GREAT FLYING! 29

30 OTHER ITEMS AVAILABLE Great Planes Escapade GP/EP ARF GPMA1200 Wingspan: 52.5 in (1,340 mm) Wing Area: 483 in² (31.2 dm²) Weight: lb (2,270 2,495 g) Wing Loading: oz/ft² (73-80 g/dm²) Length: 46 in (1,160 mm) Requires: 4-channel radio w/3-5 servos, 2-stroke engine or 4-stroke engine or 800kV outrunner brushless motor, 60A brushless ESC (min) & a 14.8V, 3200mAh LiPo battery pack The Escapade is destined to become the plane you can t put down, the model that stands out as your all-time favorite. Easy handling and aerobatic performance are just two of the reasons you ll want to fl y this ARF again and again. It fl ies great with either glow or electric power. With its built-up airframe, bolt-together construction, pre-hinged control surfaces and striking MonoKote trim scheme already applied, assembling the Escapade requires just 4-6 hours. And ailerons can be set up for single-servo simplicity or dual-servo authority with no modifi cation. Great Planes Revolver GP/EP ARF GPMA1018 Wingspan: 59 in (1500 mm) Wing Area: 563 in² (36 dm²) RTF Weight: 6-7 lb ( g) Wing Loading: oz/ft² (76-88 g/dm²) Length: 48 in (1220 mm) Requires: 4+ channel radio w/5 servos (50 oz-in min. torque) Electric Motor Requirements: 800kV brushless outrunner motor, 80A brushless ESC, (2) 3200mAh 11.1V 20C LiPo packs, 11 x 5.5E prop, large aluminum motor mount Glow Engine Requirements: 2-stroke cu in ( cc) or 4-stroke.70 cu in (11.5 cc) engine The 59 span Revolver looks fast, and its performance under glow or brushless electric power follows through with excellent high- and low-speed fl ight performance. Built from select balsa/ply, it features a 2-piece, balsa sheeted, foam core wing covered in MonoKote fi lm. The cowl, wheel pants and landing gear are light, painted fi berglass. But that s not even the best part. This fantastic sport aerobat only takes a mere 10 hours to assemble before it s fl ight-ready! 30

31 FROM GREAT PLANES Great Planes Reactor Biplane.61 GP/EP ARF GPMA1023 Wingspan: 48 in (1220 mm) Wing Area: 1145 in² (73.9 dm²) Weight: lb ( g) Wing Loading: oz/ft² (43-46 g/dm²) Length: 58.5 in (1485 mm) Requires: 4-5 channel radio w/7-8 servos 2-stroke.61 glow engine or 4-stroke glow engine or kv outrunner brushless motor, 60A brushless ESC (min) & (2) 11.1V 3200mAh 20C LiPo batteries The Reactor Biplane.61 GP/EP ARF builds upon the Reactor s reputation for classic lines and a wide fl ight envelope. It s larger than the Reactor Bipe EP, with the capability for smooth sport maneuvers, pattern fl ight and 3D aerobatics with an outrunner brushless motor as well as a 2-stroke or 4-stroke glow engine. Quality construction is evident in the fi berglass cowl, wheel pants and upper wing mounting pylon. The wing pylon is glued in place, with the servo leads inside for a cleaner look. Large, airfoiled tail surfaces offer smooth fl ight and confi dent control. Pre-hinged ailerons speed fi nal assembly even more. The servo mount cutouts are sized for digital mini servos, or can be enlarged to accommodate standard size servos. O.S. Engines.46 AX ABL OSMG0547 Ask the pilot who owns one, and the reasons to buy mount up fast. Start with 1.65 hp output from a 17.2 oz. engine. Add ABL (Advanced Bimetallic Liner) durability, a self-leveling and aligning head design, a tapered low-speed needle to eliminate transition "surge" and the.46 AX still has more to offer. There's a simple rotor guide screw for lowend adjustment - and the high-speed needle includes both a ratchet spring and O-ring seal to lock settings in for the long haul. Includes A3 glow plug, E-3010 muffler, and 2-year warranty protection. Displacement: cu in (7.5 cc) Bore: in (22.0 mm) Stroke: in (19.6 mm) Output: 1.65 rpm RPM Range: 2,000-17,000 Weight w/muffler: 17.2 oz (489g) Includes: #A3 glow plug, E-3010 muffler Requires: glow fuel, prop Suggested prop sizes: 10.5x6, 11x6-8, 12x6-7 ElectriFly RimFire.46 Outrunner Brushless Motor GPMG4725 Compared to brushed motors, RimFire motors last longer, require far less maintenance and deliver far more performance. The RimFire.46 outrunner arrives ready for installation, with goldplated bullet connectors compatible with ElectriFly s BL and Silver Series ESCs. Recommended for 3D airplanes up to 5 lb (2210 g) and sport planes up to 7.5 lb (3400 g); ideal for use with 60A brushless ESCs, 22.2V LiPo packs and 10x5 to 11x5 electric props. Please fi ll in this identifi cation tag and place inside your model. Diameter: 1.7 in (42 mm) Length: 2.4 in (60 mm) kv: 800 Burst Watts: 1850 Weight: 9.5 oz (268 g) Shaft Diameter: 5 mm 31 Input: V (5-6S LiPo) Includes: Motor, mount, prop adapter, hardware & gold-plated bullet connectors. (Female connectors are included; male connectors are installed.)